In brief
In her State of the Union address, Ursula von der Leyen highlights the myriad threats Europe faces, primarily from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and global trade challenges. She emphasizes the need for the EU to assert its independence and announces measures to strengthen support for Ukraine while also proposing sanctions against Israel amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza. von der Leyen's remarks reinforce Europe's commitment to defending its values and democratic principles in a volatile world.
BRUSSELS (AP) — In a compelling State of the Union speech, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has underscored that Europe is in the midst of a critical struggle against various threats, primarily emanating from Russia's aggressive actions and significant global trade challenges. She urged the EU to solidify its independence during this turbulent period.
She detailed new initiatives to bolster Ukraine’s defense against the continuing Russian invasion and called for the implementation of trade sanctions and other restrictions on Israel in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
“Europe is in a fight,” von der Leyen stated to EU lawmakers, emphasizing the crucial battle for democratic values and autonomy. “Make no mistake — this is a fight for our future,” she declared firmly.
Addressing the pressing issue of Russian aggression, von der Leyen acknowledged that President Vladimir Putin shows no inclination towards peace and highlighted the urgent need to intensify sanctions on Russia to compel negotiations.
In addressing trade dynamics with the U.S., von der Leyen defended the tariff arrangement crafted with Donald Trump, emphasizing the importance of this relationship for millions of European jobs, despite the compromises it entails.
Furthermore, von der Leyen made a groundbreaking shift in strategy by proposing to freeze EU support to Israel and initiate sanctions, stating that the situation in Gaza has influenced European conscience and called for a reconstructed focus on humanitarian efforts for Palestinians.
The speech underlines the EU’s resolve to navigate through these pressing challenges, adopting a posture that preserves its democratic values while addressing both humanitarian crises and geopolitical tensions.
